First Encampment Celebration
July 19, 2025

On the afternoon of July 22, 1847, the main body of the first party of Mormon pioneers came through Emigration Canyon and spent the night in the area of what is now First Encampment Park in Salt Lake City. The remainder of the group entered the valley on July 24, after celebrated as “Pioneer Day.”

In 1997, 150 years later, community volunteers built First Encampment Park to honor those who first camped here. The First Encampment Celebration and Festival includes a 5-mile commemorative hike, as well as square dancing, pioneer crafts, tours of historic pioneer homes, and our famous pancakes and bacon.

GET INVOLVED

Every July, a community breakfast is served along with music and a few booths. Volunteers can help with setup, takedown, and cooking.

COMMITTEE LEADS

Steven Hunt and Marilyn Oblad